Mentally Handicapped Adults Held in Dungeon

Four mentally handicapped adults were found in Philadelphia in what the police described as a basement dungeon. The four victims had the mental capacities of 10-year-olds. Authorities explained that the victims were chained to a boiler in a 15x15 foot basement. There was no sign of food; only some water, a bucket for the prisoners to use as a bathroom, a mattress, and a flat board with a pillow. Their captor, 50-year-old Linda Westen, posed as their caregiver and collected their disability benefit checks. Two of the victims have been with her for as long as 11 years. Westen has moved the victims from city to city; she collected the other two victims in February. Authorities have found that Westen also had two male accomplices, Eddie Wright, 51, and Gregory Thomas, 48. All three were charged with kidnapping, aggravated assault and false imprisonment. The malnourished victims were taken to the hospital for some much needed medical attention. Authorities are still trying to identify the prisoners.

If you or someone you know is in need of a criminal law attorney, please contact Attorney Michael S. Weisberg. Mr. Weisberg has been practicing law in Hampton Roads for over 30 years. Call today and set up your free consultation.